In the central research project for the WR 150 seminar “Interrogating Race in Contemporary America,” students were asked to make an argument about the ways in which one or more representations contribute to our understanding of the cultural meanings of race in America today. In this essay, Kylie takes as her main exhibit source Hamilton, possibly the most popular cultural artifact of recent years, and interrogates the praise that critics have heaped upon the musical. Kylie’s argument is well-developed, with a clear articulation of Swales’s three research moves (establish the territory, establish a niche, occupy the niche), and relies on an impressive range of sources. I particularly appreciate Kylie’s attentiveness to what readers may need to follow her argument: in providing sufficient context and clear transitions (both within and across paragraphs), she demonstrates how clarity and coherence depend upon moving from old to new information. Kylie’s essay is also a valuable model for future students who wish to include an abstract, keywords, visuals, or usage notes.
— JESSICA BOZEK
WR 150: Interrogating Race in Contemporary America